Calls for better rollout of the NDIS

A person with multiple sclerosis who only has head movement has been asked, during an NDIS planning meeting, if they are able to hang out their own washing.

The Neurological Alliance Australia - which has many examples of people facing problems when initially applying for support from the national disability insurance scheme - is calling for improvements to the assessment process.

A woman with Parkinson's who was told she is "not disabled enough" to qualify for disability support the first time she applied felt rushed and unable to express her needs in an over-the-phone NDIS planning session.

She sought a review of her support plan after working with a nurse specialist.

But NAA says to offer true choice and control in individual plans, NDIS planning sessions must consider the unique needs of people by gaining a better understanding of the diseases impacting clients.

NDIS assessors should also, wherever possible, meet with people face to face during the NDIS planning phase.

Deidre Mackechnie, CEO of MS Australia and NAA chair, said the organisation supported the NDIS and understood the challenges of the rollout.

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"However, if people with a progressive neurological disease are to receive equitable and effective support within the NDIS it is imperative that the NDIA (the agency managing the rollout) and government addresses these unmet needs," she said in a statement.